Razi Square, Tehran

What it is

This photograph, taken in 2011, shows a monument in Razi Square in Tehran, a public space named in honor of al-Razi (also known as Mohamad Zakaria Razi). The monument features a bronze statue standing on a tall illuminated pedestal inscribed with Persian calligraphy, along with smaller seated figures.

Why it matters

The square and its monument show how al-Razi is remembered in modern Iran, nearly a thousand years after his death. It demonstrates how societies honor historical scholars through public memorials, long after the original manuscripts and discoveries were made.

Look closer

• Why might a modern city choose to name a public square after a medieval scholar?
• What does the calligraphy on the pedestal suggest about how al-Razi is honored?
• How is this way of remembering him different from reading his original writings?